Chapter 12: Definition in Argument

COMM 300 - Argumentation, Final Exam

What does it mean to define?

advance a meaning for a word or to classify an object, person, or act

What is a definition report?

a noncontroversial definition that all parties to a debate agree upon, or that states a generally accepted or agreed upon meaning

How do definitions relate to categorical arguments?

definitions establish categories into which a person, an idea, or an action is placed to support a conclusion

What are the three strategies of definition?

1. euphemism

2. reclassification

3. labeling

What is a euphemism?

a less objectionable and often less accurate terms exchanged for harsh, condemning, or emotionally charged terms

What movement reflects euphemism and why?

vertical, taking the term down a notch in severity

What is reclassification?

strategic placement of an object, person, or idea under a new heading

What movement is reflected by reclassification?

horizontal

What is labeling?

characterizing a person, group, idea, or institution by introducing a suggestive name or term

What are the three questions used to evaluate definitions?

1. is the definition circular?

2. does the definition make a distinction without showing a difference?

3. did the definition originate in an appropriate source?

What is a circular definition?

a definition of a term by reference only to factors inherent in or strongly implied by the definition itself 

What are the sources of definition?

• common usage

• etymology

• paradigm case

• original intent

• authority

What is common usage?

the meaning of a term in everyday language

What is etymology?

the origin of a word

What is a paradigm case?

a representative example of the term or category in question; a typical member that defines the entire category

What is authority?

an individual’s expert knowledge and other works such as dictionaries, lexicons, and concordances

What is original intent?

the meaning of a word or phrase in its original context, or what the initial definer of a term meant by it